The meeting between Sámi Parliament President Silje Karine Muotka and Chief of Defence Eirik Kristoffersen was described as very important and useful by Muotka. The increased military activity in the north has raised concerns in the Sámi Parliament, which fears that allied forces lack knowledge about Sámi land use, especially during reindeer calving and spring migration.
Kristoffersen said that NATO documents state soldiers must take into account cultural heritage, and that the state will take responsibility if allied forces damage reindeer pastures or cultural heritage. He noted that the Norwegian Armed Forces clean up after allied forces during large exercises and are responsible for military activity on Norwegian soil. Muotka emphasized that international conventions obligate allied forces to take into account that this is a Sámi core area, and that allied forces must be informed they are in an indigenous area when operating in the north.
The northern regions are Norway's most important strategic priority area. Never before has it been more important that we get a sustainable, strong and resilient north in the face of ever-increasing geopolitical uncertainty.
Norway has gained a new and strengthened strategic role after Sweden and Finland joined NATO, becoming an increasingly important reception and transit country for allied forces. State Secretary Sigrid Ina Simonsen said the northern regions are Norway's most important strategic priority area. The meeting discussed how Sámi perspectives and local knowledge can contribute to preparedness and total defence. Kristoffersen stressed that good dialogue is crucial to avoid unwanted incidents, noting that climate change is altering reindeer movement patterns, which may require last-minute adjustments. Five ministries will meet county municipalities and the Sámi Parliament on April 23 to discuss total preparedness, security, and emergency preparedness.